Pulsed electromagnetic stimulation of regenerate bone in lengthening procedures

Distraction osteogenesis for limb lengthening represents the treatment of choice in patients with small stature or limb length discrepancies. Bone lengthening and callus formation requires a long therapy. Pulsed electromagnetic fields (PEMF) are normally used to enhance osteogenesis in patients with non-unions. In this study we investigated whether pulsed electromagnetic fields could be used effectively to encourage callus formation and maturation during limb lengthening procedures. Thirty patients underwent bilateral bone lengthening of the humerus, femur or tibia. At day 10 after surgery, PEMF stimulation was started on one side, for 8 hours/day. Stimulated distraction sites exhibited earlier callus formation and progression, and a higher callus density compared to non-stimulated sites. External fixation could be removed on average one month earlier in PEMF stimulated bones. Our results show that the use of pulsed electromagnetic fields stimulation during limb lengthening allows shortening the time of use of the external fixation.